Ski your dream descent. Guided backcountry experience, tailored to you.
Season
Winter
Skill Level
Beginner, intermediate and advanced
Duration
8 hours
Group Size
up to 6 participants
Escape the crowded slopes and chart your own course on an unforgettable custom backcountry ski adventure with Alpine to the Max. Our expert guides will collaborate with you to craft the perfect ski line, tailored to your experience level and desired terrain. Whether you crave wide-open powder bowls or challenging, technical descents, Alpine to the Max will guide you to untouched snow stashes and breathtaking mountain vistas.
This personalized backcountry outing prioritizes both freedom and safety. You'll have the peace of mind that comes with skiing alongside a certified guide who possesses extensive knowledge of the local terrain and avalanche conditions. Alpine to the Max prioritizes your enjoyment and will ensure an unparalleled backcountry experience that exceeds your expectations.
Max Lurie - Alpine to the Max
With a degree in environmental science and a focus on glaciology, Max’s deep understanding of mountain environments is only matched by his passion for them. He began his career in 2012 in New Hampshire, where he became an EMT and started guiding. Moving west, he earned his American Mountain Guides Association certifications in both rock and alpine disciplines. In 2020, he founded Alpine to the Max, an AMGA-accredited guide service that now operates throughout Colorado. He also teaches professional avalanche education for Silverton Avalanche School. When not teaching or guiding, you can find him mountain biking in the desert southwest with his fiancée.
Imagine this: crisp mountain air fills your lungs as sunlight dances on untouched powder snow, revealing a vast, silent wilderness. Backcountry skiing with a guide unlocks this dream, offering a personalized adventure unlike anything you'll experience at a resort. The beauty of a guided backcountry trip lies in its customizability. Do you crave endless pillows of untracked snow? Your guide will lead you to secret stashes, away from the crowds, for a day of playful lines and fresh tracks. Are you an experienced skier seeking a steeper challenge? They'll design a route that pushes your limits on technical terrain, navigating chutes and conquering demanding descents. Perhaps breathtaking vistas and serene exploration are more your style? Let your guide craft a route that highlights the region's natural beauty, traversing meadows, weaving through valleys, and reaching panoramic viewpoints.
Safety remains paramount throughout your adventure. Your certified guide, with intimate knowledge of the local terrain and avalanche conditions, will carry the necessary safety equipment, conduct a thorough risk assessment, and ensure you have the skills and awareness to navigate the backcountry. They act as your partner and mentor, adapting the pace and difficulty to your skill level and offering helpful pointers to elevate your experience. Whether you're a seasoned skier or a curious beginner, a guided backcountry trip caters to your individual needs and goals. The experience goes beyond just skiing; your guide might share fascinating insights about the local environment, point out historical landmarks, or simply share stories and camaraderie around a delicious backcountry lunch. A backcountry ski day with a guide isn't just about the descent; it's about embracing the journey, the camaraderie, and the unique connection with the winter wilderness. It's a chance to push your limits, discover hidden gems, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Our guided backcountry day includes: certified guide service, avalanche safety equipment (beacon, shovel, probe), backcountry planning, and route selection based on your preferences. Skis, boots, skins, and other personal equipment will have to be obtained separately.
We offer custom backcountry adventures for a variety of skill levels. Be clear about your experience level when booking to ensure the guide tailors the trip to your abilities.
Absolutely, your input is valued! However, the final call rests with your guide due to their risk management expertise. We'll strive to meet your objectives while prioritizing safety and adapting the plan as needed.
Clothing in the backcountry is an endless source of discussion. Partly because it varies so much depending on the conditions and objective. Backcountry skiing is an aerobic activity on the way up so wearing something light and breathable while still offering protection from the elements is advisable. Also, make sure to bring a large puffy down jacket to stay warm when we stop. If you have any specific clothing questions please don't hesitate to reach out.
The terrain will vary depending on your preferences and skill level. We can take you to wide-open powder bowls, challenging couloirs, scenic traverses, or a combination of these features.
Alpine to the Max is an independent certified guide with more than a decade of experience in a wide variety of terrain. No matter your current skill level, when you climb with us you get a top-notch experience that is fully customized to meet your exact desires.
